Cost Manager – Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend
Full_timeRacine, United States

📍 Job Overview

  • Job Title: Cost Manager – Data Center Construction
  • Company: Turner & Townsend
  • Location: Racine, Wisconsin, United States
  • Job Type: On-site, Full-time
  • Category: Project Management, Construction
  • Date Posted: 2025-08-01
  • Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (2-5 years)
  • Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Manage cost management activities for data center construction projects from inception to completion.
  • Collaborate with clients, contractors, and internal teams to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
  • Leverage strong analytical skills and familiarity with MEP systems to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a balance of technical expertise in cost management and strong communication skills to effectively work with diverse stakeholders in the data center construction industry.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

  • Cost Planning & Estimating: Prepare detailed cost plans, estimates, and budgets aligned with project scope and client expectations.
  • Cost Monitoring & Control: Monitor project costs, track actuals vs. forecasts, identify variances, and recommend corrective actions.
  • Procurement & Contract Management: Participate in procurement activities, review and negotiate change orders, and ensure compliance with contractual terms.
  • Reporting & Communication: Prepare and present regular cost reports, forecasts, and executive summaries to internal stakeholders and clients.
  • Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain strong working relationships with clients, contractors, vendors, and internal project teams.
  • Process Improvement: Support the development and improvement of internal cost management tools, templates, and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves a high degree of cross-functional collaboration, requiring the ability to work effectively with various teams, including design consultants, engineers, and contractors.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related field.

Experience: 3-6 years of relevant experience in cost-focused project controls or cost management, preferably in large-scale, mission-critical construction projects (e.g., data centers, high-tech, industrial).

Required Skills:

  • Strong background in cost management, budgeting, financial reporting, and cost control systems.
  • Experience with procurement strategies and commercial management of contractor/vendor contracts.
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in industry-standard tools and software for cost management.

Preferred Skills:

  • RICS accreditation or working toward it.
  • Familiarity with MEP systems.
  • Experience with construction consultancy.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, candidates with experience in data center-specific projects or a background in construction consultancy would be highly desirable for this role.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements (N/A)

📍 Note: This role is not web development or server administration-focused and does not require a web portfolio or project requirements section.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $75,000 - $110,000 per year (based on regional market research for mid-senior level cost managers in the construction industry in Racine, Wisconsin).

Benefits:

  • Competitive benefits package (details not specified).
  • Flexible working environment that respects work-life balance.
  • Equal opportunity employer with a commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Working Hours: Full-time position, with on-site presence required. Working hours may vary depending on project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on regional market research for mid-senior level cost managers in the construction industry. Actual salary may vary based on experience, qualifications, and company-specific compensation structures.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Global professional services firm specializing in project management, consultancy, and construction.

Company Size: Medium to large (22,000+ specialists in more than 60 countries).

Founded: 1946 (with a rich history and extensive experience in delivering complex projects worldwide).

Team Structure:

  • Cross-functional teams consisting of project managers, cost managers, engineers, designers, and other specialists.
  • Collaborative and client-focused culture, with a proactive approach to project delivery.

Development Methodology:

  • Turner & Townsend follows established project management methodologies, such as PRINCE2 and PMP.
  • The company emphasizes continuous improvement, innovation, and knowledge sharing.

Company Website: https://www.turnerandtownsend.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's global presence and extensive experience in delivering complex projects enable the company to provide clients with a wide range of services and expertise tailored to their specific needs.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Cost Manager – Data Center Construction role is a mid-senior level position within the cost management discipline, focusing on data center construction projects.

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the relevant project manager or cost management lead, depending on the project structure and organization.

Technical Impact: Cost managers play a critical role in ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. Their decisions and recommendations directly influence project outcomes, user experience, and overall client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Progression to senior cost management roles, such as Senior Cost Manager or Associate Director.
  • Specialization in specific sectors or project types, such as data centers or high-tech facilities.
  • Transition into other related disciplines, such as project management or commercial management.

📝 Enhancement Note: With Turner & Townsend's global presence and diverse project portfolio, cost managers have ample opportunities to grow their careers, gain experience in various sectors, and take on leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, collaborative office spaces with a focus on employee well-being and productivity.

Office Location(s): Racine, Wisconsin, United States (with global offices in over 60 countries).

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative workspaces with access to industry-standard tools and software.
  • Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance.
  • A culture that encourages knowledge sharing, continuous learning, and professional development.

Work Schedule: Full-time position, with on-site presence required. Working hours may vary depending on project needs and client requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's global presence and diverse project portfolio enable employees to work on various projects and gain exposure to different industries and cultures.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process (N/A)

📍 Note: This role is not web development or server administration-focused and does not have an application or technical interview process section.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure (N/A)

📍 Note: This role is not web development or server administration-focused and does not have a technology stack or web infrastructure section.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Turner & Townsend Values:

  • Client-focused: Deliver exceptional client service and build strong, lasting client relationships.
  • Collaborative: Work together to achieve common goals and create a positive, inclusive work environment.
  • Innovative: Embrace change, continuously improve, and drive progress through innovation and creativity.
  • Responsible: Act with integrity, take responsibility for our actions, and contribute positively to society and the environment.

Collaboration Style:

  • Turner & Townsend fosters a collaborative work environment, encouraging cross-functional teamwork, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning.
  • The company values open communication, active listening, and constructive feedback to drive project success and employee growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's values and collaborative culture create an environment that supports employee growth, professional development, and project success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

  • Managing complex data center construction projects with tight deadlines and budget constraints.
  • Collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and internal teams, to ensure project success.
  • Staying up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in cost management and data center construction.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Turner & Townsend offers various learning and development opportunities, such as training programs, workshops, and e-learning resources.
  • Employees have the chance to work on diverse projects, gain exposure to different industries, and develop their skills and expertise.
  • The company encourages internal promotions and career progression, providing employees with ample opportunities to grow within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's diverse project portfolio and commitment to employee development enable cost managers to tackle challenging projects, learn from experienced colleagues, and advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

📍 Note: This role is not web development or server administration-focused and does not have an interview preparation section.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Cost Manager – Data Center Construction position:

  1. Submit your application through the application link provided in the job listing.
  2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in cost management, budgeting, and financial reporting.
  3. Prepare for the interview by researching Turner & Townsend, understanding the company's values and culture, and practicing common interview questions for cost management roles.
  4. Demonstrate your familiarity with data center construction projects and your ability to manage complex projects within budget and on time.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Application Requirements

Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in a related field and 3-6 years of relevant experience in cost management. Strong analytical skills and familiarity with MEP systems are beneficial.